The experiences of caregivers of young people with behavioural difficulties: A thematic-synthesis

Challenging behaviour, also known as behavioural difficulties or problem behaviour, can be described as behaviour which can cause harm to the individual or others and is considered outside of the norm for someone of that age or level of development in terms of frequency, duration, or intensity (Ogundele, 2018). It can include physical and verbal aggression, defiance, and disruption.

Challenging behaviour features prominently in a range of conditions listed under disruptive, impulse-control and conduct disorders in The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders - Fifth Edition (DSM-5) (APA, 2013), including oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), intermittent explosive disorder, conduct disorder (CD), and antisocial personality disorder. These are characterised by behaviours that violate the rights of others or societal norms, including aggression, destruction of property, and refusal to follow rules.

The review will aim to synthesise qualitative findings into the experiences of caregivers of children and young people with challenging behaviour. It would be helpful to know what helps or hinders their parenting experience so that appropriate interventions can be developed. It is hoped that the review will offer important insight into this population’s needs and identify any gaps in the literature, leading to recommendations for future research.